As August rolls around, back-to-school for many families means back to germs. Parents and teachers brace themselves each fall for the onslaught of unwanted after-school visitors. Flu, norovirus, or COVID, nobody looks forward to being ill. Fortunately, you can utilize some proven strategies to make returning to school a bit healthier for yourself and your children. We’ll get into some proven dos and don’ts to keep yourself healthy this school year.
Do: Wash and sanitize your hands
Mom’s advice has merit. Simple handwashing is one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of germs. Stash that sanitizer in the car, the kid’s backpacks, or on a shelf to remind you to clean ‘em up every time you get home. Your future self will thank you!
Don’t: Forget to clean high-touch surfaces
Sure, we know doorknobs and tables need to be cleaned regularly. But how often do you sanitize your laptop keyboard or cell phone? Sanitizing things that touch your hands reduces the risk of catching something from your kiddos.
Do: Keep indoor areas well-ventilated
Viruses thrive in stuffy indoor environments. Prime environment? Your kid’s school. Good ventilation can help cycle air through more quickly, reducing the time germs have to spread. Simply letting fresh air circulate can slow the spread of illness. Take a cue from Victorian times, and throw open a window or bask in the sun.
Don’t: Rely on “immune-boosters”
There are countless on the market, from zinc to elderberry to megadoses of vitamin C or D. What do they all have in common? Almost all of them can be found already in healthy foods, few are regulated for purity, and none have been consistently shown to prevent infection. Skip the gimmicks. Focus on eating a diet rich in whole fruits, vegetables, and minimally processed foods, regular exercise, and high-quality sleep.
Do: Get vaccinated against common germs
COVID and flu aren’t the only vaccine-preventable illnesses. Older adults, especially those with heart or lung problems, should talk to their doctor about vaccinations for pneumonia, RSV, shingles, and more. As we age, the immune system weakens, reducing our ability to fight infection. Vaccines boost our immune response, priming the pump for the next time we encounter a virus.
Don’t: Spread your germs to others
Sharing is caring? Not when it comes to spreading germs. Viruses thrive on new victims. If you get sick, try to break the chain of spreading the virus to others. Stay home from work, or hold your kids out of school until they’re better. It’s not jus good for others – it’ll also give you plenty of time to rest and recuperate.
Back-to-school time can be stressful, but getting sick isn’t inevitable. If you do get sick, check out our article on how to care for yourself at home. By following the tips above, you’ll be well-prepared for anything this school year throws at you!